The game got off to a horrible start and we found ourselves down two scores about 5 minutes into the game. Not much of this can be assigned to poor QB play really. Once the tone of the game changed and it was now certain that if we were going to win the game, we had to outscore them in a scoring race, the QB would naturally be under a great deal of extra pressure to find receivers down field and to find a way to score quickly. Now, arguably that is also a good time to calm down, settle in and move the ball down the field methodically (by running as much as you can and throwing when necessary to move the chains and do things the traditional Nebraska way). Unfortunately, this method is counter to Riley and Langs' instincts as they both seem utterly compelled to try to respond quickly (the quicker the better seemingly). Arguably, you want to take about 12 plays and 5 minutes of game time to grind out a hard nosed, smashmouth drive for a TD. This approach of course has several positives besides matching the score including giving the defense a good break and time to discuss and make adjustments on the sidelines and to begin and continue the process of wearing down the opposing defense (mentally and physically).
The quick response score maybe makes the coaches and fans feel better because the score looks better but in the course of the game, it is the team who wins the final score that matters. It is usually helpful to follow this game plan in general as the winningest college football programs have this one common denominator in their history. They wear the opponents down with tough, hard nosed football (hard blocks and tackles and determination). Flash and flare are fun at the moment they happen but to win consistantly, you need to be tougher than your oppoent as football is a game of brute force applied smartly.